As per Market Research Future Analysis, the Global Polybutene Market was valued at USD 0.84 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 1.30 Billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 4.1% from 2025 to 2035. The growth is driven by increasing demand from end-use industries, particularly in food packaging and automotive sectors, due to polybutene's superior mechanical and chemical properties. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to dominate the market, supported by economic growth and industrialization, while North America is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate due to rising use in cosmetics and personal care products.
Key trends driving the polybutene market include its diverse applications and growing demand across various sectors.
Key players include BASF SE, Dongfang Hongye Limited Company, DAELIM, INEOS, Lubrizol Corporation, LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V., Mitsui Chemicals Inc., TPC Group, Ylem Technology Co. Ltd., Braskem, KEMAT Polybutenes, SOLTEX, Maharashtra Polybutenes Ltd, and A S Harrison & Co Pty Limited.
The growing demand from plumbing & piping systems and expanding use in adhesives & sealants are driving the growth of the Polybutene Market.
As per the Analyst at MRFR, the growing demand from plumbing and piping systems stands out as a primary driver behind the robust growth of the global polybutene-1 (PB-1) market. Polybutene-1 (PB-1) has maintained an outstanding operational track record in Europe and Asia, with over 50 years of continuous service in pressurized hot and cold-water installations. Its acceptance as the technological standard for plumbing systems in these regions is rooted in its unmatched reliability, thermal stability, and resistance to corrosion and scaling. Since its initial use, PB-1 systems have evolved through advances in polymer science and manufacturing techniques.
 FIGURE 1: POLYBUTENE MARKET VALUE (2019-2035) USD BILLION
 Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
The global flexible packaging sector is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by shifting consumer preferences toward sustainability, durability, and convenience. In 2024, the global packaging market was valued at USD 1.24 trillion, and it is forecast to grow to USD 1.69 trillion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 3.16% over the next decade. Within this massive opportunity, flexible packaging represents over 40% of the total packaging demand, and polybutene—especially polybutene-1 (PB-1)—is gaining traction due to its exceptional physical properties.Â
These include up to 50% higher creep resistance and 30% greater toughness compared to conventional polyethylene and polypropylene, making PB-1 particularly suitable for applications like shrink films, multilayer food wraps, and industrial liners. Furthermore, PB-1’s superior temperature resistance (up to 100°C) and unique crystalline transformation yield packaging solutions that are more durable and sustainable. As packaging regulations tighten and the demand for high-performance, recyclable materials grows, PB-1's ability to meet both performance and environmental criteria positions as a critical enabler of innovation in the flexible packaging market.
The packaging industry's push toward enhanced consumer convenience is reflected in the over 20% annual growth rate of the global easy-open packaging segment. Polybutene-1 is pivotal in this evolution, offering customized sealing ranges from 85°C to 140°C and excellent seal integrity, even on contaminated surfaces. This makes it ideal for easy-peel applications, which are now used in more than 60% of packaged fresh and frozen food products. PB-1’s contribution to seal-peel solutions ensures not only ease of use but also tamper evidence, a key feature in pharmaceutical and food applications. In a time when 78% of consumers express a preference for packaging that is easier to open, PB-1-based materials directly meet market expectations. Its growing use in deli liners, cheese packs, and meat trays aligns with increasing demand for portion-controlled and resealable packaging formats. As urbanization and aging populations drive the need for user-friendly packaging, PB-1's high performance across temperature ranges and sealing conditions secures its spot as a strategic material in consumer-centric packaging design.
Flexible packaging materials must balance softness, durability, and clarity—characteristics where PB-1 shines. When used as a film modifier, polybutene can increase softness and elasticity by over 40%, without compromising tensile strength. It also improves film elongation by up to 60%, enabling packaging that resists tearing underload, especially important in e-commerce and bulk logistics. In film applications, PB-1 helps maintain optical clarity, a growing requirement in premium food and personal care markets where transparent packaging boosts product visibility and consumer trust.Â
Moreover, PB-1 enhances barrier performance when integrated into multilayer films—an area projected to grow at fastest CAGR through 2035 due to increasing demand for shelf-life extension in perishable goods. Its creep resistance and bonding ability allow the creation of high-performance structures that replace heavier, multi-material packaging, supporting the global shift toward source reduction and recyclability. These improvements directly support brand goals for sustainability while meeting retailer demands for high shelf stability, clean aesthetics, and tamper-proof design.
Hot melt adhesives are a critical enabler of high-performance packaging and are witnessing strong market growth. In 2024, the global hot melt adhesives market was valued at USD 11,732.29 million and is projected to reach USD 14,734.00 million by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.85%. At the same time, the global demand stood at 3,691.30 kilotons in 2024 and is expected to rise to 4,482.21 kilotons by 2028, reflecting the growing reliance on fast, efficient bonding solutions. Polybutene-1 (PB-1) plays a pivotal role in this domain by acting as a tackifier, polymer extender, plasticizer, and wetting agent. When blended into hot melt adhesives, PB-1 improves adhesion while reducing application temperatures by up to 15–20%, resulting in lower energy costs and faster packaging line throughput. PB-1 also improves flexibility at low temperatures and enhances adhesion to a wide range of substrates, broadening its usability across rigid and flexible packaging materials.
In multilayer packaging films, PB-1 allows different barrier polymers to bond without additional tie layers, streamlining material construction and reducing cost. This is especially critical in high-barrier packaging formats for meat, dairy, and pharmaceutical products, where PB-1 contributes to up to 25% improved resistance to moisture and oxygen transmission, helping extend product shelf life while maintaining safety and freshness. Additionally, its low density allows manufacturers to reduce material consumption per unit, aligning with circular economy goals and eco-design mandates. Manufacturers such as LyondellBasell have developed a comprehensive portfolio of PB-1 grades suitable for extrusion, blow molding, and injection molding, enabling its application far beyond packaging. From rotationally molded tanks and hot water piping systems to acoustic insulation materials, PB-1’s adaptability and high-performance characteristics make it a material of choice across packaging and industrial applications alike.
Based on Grade, this segment includes Extrusion Grade, Injection Molding Application, Extrusion Blow Molding Application. The Extrusion Grade segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Extrusion Blow Molding Application segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Extrusion grade polybutene is engineered for applications where the polymer must be pushed continuously through a die to produce long, uniform profiles such as pipes, films, or sheets.Â
This grade exhibits exceptional melt strength, low shrinkage, and excellent thermal stability, enabling it to be processed under high-temperature conditions without degrading. Its high flexibility and stress crack resistance make it an ideal material for hot and cold-water piping systems, where performance and reliability over long durations are critical. One of its primary uses is in polybutene-1 (PB-1) piping systems, especially in residential and commercial plumbing, underfloor heating systems, and district heating networks. These systems benefit from polybutene’s low thermal conductivity, resistance to scaling, and minimal noise during water flow, which enhances end-user comfort.
FIGURE 2: POLYBUTENE MARKET SHARE BY GRADE 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
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Based on Application, this segment includes Chewing Gum, Masterbatches, Sealants, Adhesives, Plastic Packaging, Piping Systems, Others. The Adhesives segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Piping Systems segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Polybutene is widely used as a modifying resin in adhesives, especially in pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs), hot melted adhesives (HMAs), and contact adhesives. Its key contributions are improved tackiness, flexibility, cohesive strength, and open time.Â
It enhances adhesion on diverse substrates such as plastics, metals, rubber, and glass, and its low molecular weight grades provide superior wetting and spread ability. It also enables adjustable peel strength and softness, critical for tape, label, and film adhesives. In packaging applications, polybutene-modified hot melt adhesives are used for case and carton sealing, bottle labeling, and envelope sealing, where fast set times and good thermal stability are essential. In nonwoven hygiene products like diapers and sanitary pads, it imparts skin-safe softness and excellent bonding between layers. Additionally, in automotive and electronics, it is used in structural adhesives, where it adds flexibility and impact resistance.
Based on the Region, the global Polybutene are segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America and Middle East & Africa. The Asia-Pacific dominated the global market in 2024, while it is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Major demand factors driving the Asia-Pacific market are the growing demand from plumbing & piping systems and expanding use in adhesives & sealants.Â
Rapid urbanization and industrial expansion—especially in China and India—are driving high demand for plumbing and piping systems. Polybutene’s resistance to heat, chemicals, corrosion, and its flexibility make it ideal for hot- and cold-water supply, underfloor heating, and efficient installation. Meanwhile, adhesives and sealants form another major growth pillar. Vendors are scaling production to meet this surge, positioning the region as both the dominant and fastest‑growing segment globally in the polybutene market.
FIGURE 3: POLYBUTENE MARKET VALUE BY REGION 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Further, the countries considered in the scope of the Application Tracking System Market are the US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, UK, France, Russia, Spain, Italy, Finland, Poland, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, Argentina, GCC Countries, South Africa and others.
Many global, regional, and local vendors characterize the Polybutene Market. The market is highly competitive, with all the players competing to gain market share. Intense competition, rapid advances in technology, frequent changes in government policies, and environmental regulations are key factors that confront market growth. The vendors compete based on cost, product quality, reliability, and government regulations. Vendors must provide cost-efficient, high-quality products to survive and succeed in an intensely competitive market.
The major competitors in the market are Ylem Technology, Soltex, LyondellBasell Industries, Daelim, INEOS, Kothari Petrochemicals, ENEOS Corporation, KEMAT, Dowpol Chemical International Corp., and Mitsui Chemicals are among others. The Polybutene Market is a consolidated market due to increasing competition, acquisitions, mergers and other strategic market developments and decisions to improve operational effectiveness.
April 2025: INEOS Energy has announced the completion of its acquisition of the US Gulf business from CNOOC Energy Holdings U.S.A. Inc., a subsidiary of CNOOC International Limited. This acquisition boosts INEOS Energy’s global production to over 90 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day and marks the third major investment by the company in the United States in the past three years. These investments include a 1.4 million tonnes per annum LNG deal with Sempra in December 2022 and the acquisition of Chesapeake Energy’s oil and gas assets in South Texas in May 2023.
The acquired business, now integrated into INEOS Energy, includes a portfolio of non-operated assets centered around two deepwater early production assets—Appomattox and Stampede—in the US Gulf. The deal also encompasses several mature assets and supporting operations, further enhancing INEOS’ existing US onshore energy portfolio.
October 2024: LyondellBasell (LYB) announced its acquisition of full ownership of APK AG in Merseburg, Germany. APK will be fully integrated into LyondellBasell and continue operating as part of the company. As a leader in sustainability within the chemical industry, LyondellBasell aims to further advance APK’s unique solvent-based technology for low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The company plans to build commercial plants in the future, enabling the production of high-purity materials for use in applications such as flexible packaging for personal care products, in order to meet the evolving demands of customers and brand owners.
September 2023: Soltex, Inc., a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality additives for various industrial sectors, has announced the strategic acquisition of DSI Ventures, a prominent player in the dielectric fluid industry. This acquisition is part of Soltex's ongoing efforts to expand its market reach, particularly in key sectors such as immersion cooling for data centres, electric vehicle fluids, and battery storage. Glenn Bohny, President of Soltex, commented that the addition of DSI Ventures aligns with the company’s growth strategy. The acquisition enhances Soltex's product portfolio and accelerates its entry into the data center fluid and e-mobility markets, allowing the company to cater to a broader customer base.
Dawn Allen, President of DSI Ventures, expressed that the integration of DSI Ventures into Soltex marks a significant milestone. She emphasized that the partnership not only expands the product portfolio but also combines the strengths of both companies to deliver exceptional value to clients. With DSI Ventures’ deep expertise in the electric vehicle market, the collaboration aligns perfectly with Soltex’s innovative approach, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in AI and immersion cooling technologies.
| Report Attribute/Metric | Details |
| Market Size 2024 | USD 0.84 Billion |
| Market Size 2025 | USD 0.87 Billion |
| Market Size 2035 | USD 1.30 Billion |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) | 4.1% (2025-2035) |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2035 |
| Historical Data | 2019-2023 |
| Forecast Units | Value, Volume (USD Billion, Kilo Tons) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| Segments Covered | By Grade, By Application |
| Geographies Covered | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa |
| Countries Covered | The US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, UK, France, Russia, Spain, Italy, Finland, Poland, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, Argentina, GCC Countries, South Africa |
| Key Companies Profiled | Ylem Technology, Soltex, LyondellBasell Industries, Daelim, INEOS, Kothari Petrochemicals, ENEOS Corporation, KEMAT, Dowpol Chemical International Corp., Mitsui Chemicals |
| Key Market Opportunities | ·        Rise in Flexible Packaging Applications ·        Increasing use of masterbatch |
| Key Market Dynamics | ·        Growing Demand from Plumbing & Piping Systems ·        Expanding Use in Adhesives & Sealants |
Polybutene Market Highlights:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
USD 0.84 Billion is the Polybutene Market in 2024
The Extrusion Application segment by Grade holds the largest market share and grows at a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period.
Asia-Pacific holds the largest market share in the Polybutene Market.
Ylem Technology, Soltex, LyondellBasell Industries, Daelim, INEOS, Kothari Petrochemicals, ENEOS Corporation, KEMAT, Dowpol Chemical International Corp., Mitsui Chemicals are prominent players in the Polybutene Market.
The Adhesives segment dominated the market in 2024.
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Research Analyst Level I In her 3 years of experience in the market research field, she has handled critical cross-domain projects. she has an in-depth knowledge of market estimation & analysis, problem-solving, primary as well as secondary research, and team management.she holds an engineering degree and is an mba professional from a well-known university, capable of evaluating the market and competitive conditions. an exceptional strategist with excellent communication skills and a passion for delivering cutting-edge & practical insights for the market. proficient in multi-tasking, and can successfully deal with competing demands, while maintaining complete confidentiality. generated business through active client and project development, networking, and high-quality responses. her knowledge and skills have helped in making solid business decisions, securing funding from investors, and avoiding business failures.
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